breed profile

Breed Profile – Wire Fox Terrier

In our latest breed profile we find out more about the Wire Fox Terrier. This distinctive terrier breed has a bold character that needs a firm, positive hand. History of Breed: Although the Smooth Fox Terrier was the earliest to be recognised as a breed, the Wire Fox Terrier overtook the Smooth in the 20th century…

image of dachshund puppy

Breed Profile – Dachshund

This German scent hound breed may be small, but what the Dachshund lacks in size it makes up for in character. Our latest breed profile focuses on the ‘sausage dog’ with the excellent nose.  History of Breed: The word ‘dachshund’ literally translates as ‘badger dog’ in German, although in their native country they are referred to…

Breed Profile: English Mastiff

One of the oldest and largest dog breeds, the English Mastiff is a guard dog that can be surprisingly gentle. This dog is not for the faint-hearted though. A breed this big needs a big home and has a big appetite too. History of Breed: There is some confusion over the Mastiff breed and the term…

Breed Profile – Clumber Spaniel

Our latest breed profile looks more closely at the Clumber Spaniel, a breed that had some prominence at this year’s Crufts. The steadiest of the spaniels, this gundog breed has a loveable nature to match its mournful ‘take me home’ expression. History of Breed: The Clumber Spaniel has an intriguing history with several theories as to…

Breed Profile – German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog, or GSD, is famous for it’s herding, tracking and guarding abilities. Read on to find out more about this versatile, working breed from Germany. History of Breed: Formerly known as the Alsatian in the UK, the German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in the late 19th century, making it a fairly new…

Shar Pei image courtesy of Ruth Neil.

Breed Profile – Shar Pei

An intriguing Chinese breed is the focus of this breed profile. Bred to guard, fight and hunt, the Shar Pei actually has an affectionate nature. Their interesting coat is their unique characteristic.   History of the Breed: Also known as the Chinese Shar Pei, this interesting breed originated in China as a guard, fighting and hunting…

Breed Profile – Golden Retriever

One of the most easily recognisable breeds in the UK, the Golden Retriever is a gundog with boundless enthusiasm. Friendly, loyal and full of fun, the breed makes a great family dog.  History of Breed: The first Lord Tweedmouth developed the Golden Retriever at his Guisachan estate. With the improvements in firearms, there was a requirement…

siberian husky breed guide

Breed Profile – Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a spitz-type breed of dog with a reputation as the lightest and fastest sled dog. Given plenty of exercise to burn off all that energy, they also make calm, loyal companions too. History of Breed: Originating in northeastern Siberia, the Siberian Husky is also known as the Chukchi sled dog. This name…

irish wolfhound dog

Breed Profile – Irish Wolfhound

The tallest dog breed in the world, the Irish Wolfhound is a sight hound with an interesting history. Whilst it might be the biggest, it’s also one of the gentlest and certain to increase your food bill! History of Breed: As its name suggests, the Irish Wolfhound was developed in Ireland to hunt wolves. It’s Irish…

Whippet in Park

Breed Profile – Whippet

This breed from the hound group is the classic Northern sporting dog. Loyal and affectionate with an amazing turn of speed, the Whippet is a dog you can put your money on. History of Breed: Small Greyhounds, similar to the Whippet, have been around since the 17th century and can be seen depicted in 18th century…

rhodesian ridgeback dog

Breed Profile – Rhodesian Ridgeback

We’ve talked about this handsome breed before, but never done a proper breed guide, so it’s time to put that right. Despite an image as a fierce lion hunter, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good-natured breed. This interesting breed with its distinctive ‘ridgeback’ needs an experienced handler. History of Breed: The Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in southern…

bulldog adult and puppy

Breed Profile – English Bulldog

The pugnacious Bulldog is the focus of our latest breed profile. Full of character and fighting spirit, it became a symbol of Britain and remains popular today. History of Breed: The Bulldog’s origins lie in the ancient ‘entertainment’ of bull baiting, which was introduced by the Normans and used short thick-set versions of mastiff-type breeds. Thankfully,…